Elks annual meet preps skaters for long track championships

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – The Fort St. John Elks Speed Skating Club held its annual meet with skaters coming from places such as Vancouver, Kamloops and parts of Alberta to compete. The meet provided skaters a chance to prepare for the B.C. Long Track Championships which Fort St. John will host January 16-17.

That weekend the best skaters from around the province will be trying to win spots on Team B.C. and skate in the Canadian Age Class Championships in Quebec February 4-5.

Elks skaters dominated the competition over the weekend with personal bests from many competitors. In division one Rene Kalkmann and Eryn Stickel continued their strong season with both looking like strong threats to make the provincial team.

In division two Elks skaters took the top six spots. Joshua Telizyn, Yuna Lovell, and Nyam Newlove, took the first three positions. They were followed close behind by Amanda Mitchell, Brooke Braun, Nicholas Guliov, and Michelle Kalkmann. All of these skaters will be seeking spots on Team B.C.

In division three local skaters took the first three spots. William Brown, Hanah North and Matthew Mitchell each had personal bests for the sweep.

The public is invited to watch the B.C. Long Track Championship from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday this coming weekend at the Pomeroy Sport Centre.